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Best External SSD

Most of the external solid state drives you can buy today are impressive, but only few are greater than the rest. If you want to buy the best external SSD for yourself, we recommend the Samsung T3 Portable SSD. It is a success story for its appealing design, incredible performance, and protection. This best external SSD provides storage capacity of up to 500GB with impressively fast transfer speed and versatile compatibility. Moreover, it comes only in stylish palm-sized design to provide performance that’s unrivaled by many standard portable hard drives on the market. What we loved the most about the Samsung T3 Portable SSD and why we hand-picked this as our best external SSD on the market is the way it transfers all your important data with blazing fast speeds, up to 4 times faster than ever experienced, plus it comes in a powerfully durable body.

The Samsung T3 Portable SSD is a rare thing, really. It is compact, lightweight, with just the right punch of portability so you can take all your important data wherever you go. It is backed by Samsung 3D vertical NAND technology that boasts of performance, efficiency, and capacity for long-term use. And the AES Encryption helps keep all your data safe. According to our research, we found that the Samsung T3 Portable SSD is an upgraded version for its exterior design and components, making it stronger and more efficient than ever. The snow metal housing is rugged and well-powered to last longer for most people. The most important thing to consider about external solid state drives is that they should possess the perfect body with solid gripping and durability to sustain portability. The Samsung T3 Portable SSD is a perfect match in those cases. It is compact, features a robust resistant rate, and is impressively lightweight to carry around. Plus if you know gadgets, you know that Samsung has a reputation for engineering extremely powerful external solid state drives.

If you want powerful storage and don’t mind an expensive drive, we recommend the SanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD. It features transfer speeds of up to 850MB per second and has a 9 times faster performance than an external hard drive. The solid SSD technology eliminates overheating and faltering, while the built-in 128-bit AES encryption softwares makes the drive safer and well-protected for faster transfers and data storage. The USB port is all that you need to work this best external SSD, you don’t need additional power cords or supplies any more. Among all the higher-grade solid state drives on the market, the SanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD is the best-performing one because of its durable anti-heating and quieter operating components. We know how frustrating it is to run an overheated SSD each time you’re transferring large amounts of data; which is why SanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD’s cutting-edge technology reads and writes data 9 times faster, reducing wasted time and power.

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, we recommend the Transcend USB 3.0 External SSD. It is an impressively portable external SSD for wherever you go. It’s that compact and lightweight to fit in your pocket, but features a few durable components for long-term use. The next generation SuperSpeed USB 3.0 connection supports UASP and high-storage capacity of up to 1TB. This makes file sharing much simpler and straightforward. Plus, the USB 3.0 interface is 10 times better than the bandwidth of USB 2.0, making it less of a hassle for sharing large amounts of data. This best external SSD performs up to 410MB and 380MB per second transfers in a sufficient drive capacity of 1TB. The cutting-edge technology of the Transcend USB 3.0 External SSD keeps the drive cooler and quieter for long-term use, plus it is shock-resistant and vibration-resistant, giving users the best value for their money. Another impressive feature of this best external SSD is the one-touch auto-backup button for safekeeping all your important data, no matter where you are.

What to look for in the best external SSD

The fact that external solid-state drives are winning hearts tremendously, they’ve become a trend for savvy buyers online. And as with trends, they come with certain parameters that must be met.
The process of storing your data on a secure, reliable platform must be carried out after you’ve considered these basic points. And unlike traditional storage drives, the best external SSD is way more advanced and durable to use. It will last longer if bought with a general understand of how an external SSD works and its advantages. Following are just the general factors you should consider before you purchase the best external SSD on the market.
Body
This includes lightweight, compact, and portable features of an external SSD. It also includes the durability factor found in most external solid-state drives. Almost all external solid-state drives are portable and ideal for traveling, but some drives are better than most. The best external SSD can withstand high-impact shocks, scratches, dust, sudden drops, etc.
Speed
Purchasing a slow-speed external SSD is pointless, especially after the known fact that external solid-state drives are built for powerful and speedy performance. All of our recommendations are backed with USB 3.0 or higher interfaces, which means that they’re 10 times faster than USB 2.0, hence more reliable.
Capacity
This includes data storage capacity. Ideally, if you’re buying the best external SSD it means you’re looking to store important data from your laptop or PC. So, the higher the data capacity, the better it is for you. But, again, the data capacity of an external SSD solely depends on if you plan to store large files or backup media files.

Our best pick: Samsung T3 Portable SSD

Samsung T3 Portable SSD
If you’re looking for an incomparable external SSD for yourself, go for the Samsung T3 Portable SSD. It is the easiest deal to get simply because it combines some of the best features found in professional solid state drives, only this one is portable, powerful, and durable for most people to benefit from. The only aspect that makes any external SSD a failure in the eyes of experts is slow speed and extreme sensitivity to falter during large transfers. This best external SSD is ultra-compact and lightweight for portable use. It features a fast and reliable USB 3.1 Type-C connector. The built-in AES 256-bit encryption is expertly designed to protect your data while the 3D vertical NAND technology helps increase performance that’s 4 times faster than standard portable hard drives. Let’s talk about this drive’s connectivity options: the Samsung T3 Portable SSD is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android tablets, and smartphones, thanks to the USB 3.1 Type-C connection port. It also supports ports of USB 2.0 with the help of a Type-C or Type-A adapter. The durable body of this best external SSD is shock-resistant and comes with rounded corners for easy storage. The versatile storage capacity of 500GB and fast-speed of up to 450MB per second makes the Samsung T3 Portable SSD 4 times faster than standard drives, plus the solid internal frame weighs much less than 2 ounces. It is a complete package for its performance, durability, and efficiency- something that buyers would love to experience first-hand. The Samsung T3 Portable SSD is a suitable external SSD for most people. It is expertly engineered to sustain a 6.5-foot drop and even though it isn’t a waterproof drive to get, it offers some of the best foundation features that will last a lifetime.
To conclude, the Samsung T3 Portable SSD destined to do what other external solid state drives cannot. It is a terrific buy for its price, and it is the most compelling drive to steal in most circumstances.

Our upgraded pick: SanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD

SanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD
When you’re shopping for an external SSD online, you want the best option for most, and how else to determine the rugged if not, alternatively, by price. Price can play a crucial role in determining the scope of both the buyer and the product being bought. The SanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD is a higher-grade model with features parallel to those of an extravagant price. Considering today’s technologies, it is imperative that you purchase the best external SSD that’s better than most and well-protected. And when data transfer and storage is concerned, we want something dependable and rugged enough to sustain such a huge responsibility. The 850MB per second transfer speed is suitable for high-quality 4K Ultra HD videos, high-resolution photos, large graphic files, and such aggressive data transfers. Even the navigation is simple enough for most people to use. The SanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD’s rugged housing is shock-resistant, vibration-resistant, and features a rubber bumper for added durability. When it comes to external solid state drives, we found that the faster the transfer rate, the better the performance. It has a the fastest external SSD drive on the market. And it also surpasses many higher-grade drives that are way more expensive. With the SanDisk Secure Access encryption software, you don’t have to worry about losing all your data and the privacy of your data any more. This smart external SSD keeps everything in check, with faster access time, better navigation, and durable components. What’s more: 35 times faster accessibility, 1.92TB drive, and password protection uses. It supports USB 3.0 cables and USB Type-C ports for better connectivity. Specifically designed for large files, the SanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD is aware of your data and how important it is for you. Plus, with a 3-year limited warranty, the durable aluminum design and rubber housing of this best external SSD makes everything greater.
To conclude, theSanDisk Extreme 900 Portable SSD is seriously fast and powerful for large graphic files. It is everything you’re looking for in an expensive external SSD on the market.

Our affordable pick: Transcend USB 3.0 External SSD

Transcend USB 3.0 External SSD
The Transcend USB 3.0 External SSD is our favorite pick for many reasons: firstly, it’s a cheaper buy, secondly, it’s faster than most inexpensive solid state drives, and thirdly, it is backed by super technologies for better storage facilities and controls. Sometimes, to buy the best external SSD at a cheap price, buyers have to tolerate some frustrating qualities such as overheating, slower speeds, etc. But, the Transcend USB 3.0 External SSD is the exception is such cases. It’s fast, lightweight, and durable to last for more than 3 years without causing any trouble. It has a 3-year limited warranty and comes in 128, 256, and 516 GB capacities, including a solid 1TB drive. The Transcend Elite data management software is downloadable on the drive, which makes things so much simpler for you. This management software features some of the data management tools for better safekeeping and organization. So, if you have important data stored on this best external SSD, this software will help you keep it safe too. We trust this new drive completely because it has received some impressive consumer reviews on Amazon and it has been well-received by many experts online. The Transcend USB 3.0 External SSD isn’t just a cheaper alternative for most people, it is the best one. This pocket-sized SSD supports a connection bandwidth up to 5Gbits per second and it also supports UASP. The SuperSpeed USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 connection ports are convenient and versatile to be compatible with many devices. Plus, the next generation speed technology makes it a compelling gadget for most people. What’s more: it comes with a reliable travel pouch, a warranty card, and a Quick Start Guide so you don’t lose your way.
To conclude, the Transcend USB 3.0 External SSD makes affordably buying look good and smart. Getting your laptop or desktop something as sturdy and powerful as this best external SSD is always better than getting a drive that offers only a few features that aren’t 100% compatible with what you want.

Best external SSD for MAC

Transcend Thunderbolt External SSD StoreJet 500
Looking for an external SSD that’s exclusively for your MAC? The Transcend Thunderbolt External SSD StoreJet 500 offers superior data transfer speeds and reliable connection to boost your productivity and match your MAC’s style and design. It comes with a SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface which is way better than most, plus the interface is backed with USB Attached SCSI Protocol (UASP) support. This best external SSD is also equipped with a solid Thunderbolt interface that offers even greater and faster transfer speeds of up to 10Gb per second. It has a 3-year limited warranty and comes with a LED power data transfer indicator for ease of use. The overall design of this best external SSD is durable, lightweight, and easy to use and it supports full Time Machine which means that you can plug in this drive on your Mac without any backup of your previous data. The Transcend Thunderbolt External SSD StoreJet 500 helps keep your data safe and sound, and you’re free to save all kinds of files as you like in it. It has a whopping expandable storage space, making it easy for users to store full 42 hours of 1080p HD videos, over 120,000 HD digital images, and over 4,000 hours of digital music. All this, and much more for your exclusive Macbook.

Best external SSD for Windows

Sony SL-BG2 Ultra-Compact External SSD
When you’re looking for an external SSD for Windows, it is imperative that it should have a superior protection system built in its technology and intelligent file management backup that recognizes files and keeps them safe, regardless of the circumstances. The Sony SL-BG2 Ultra-Compact External SSD is one such beauty that is designed in perfect compatibility with Windows with a intelligent Backup Manager, Password Protection Manager, and a durable design that is bound to impress you forever. It is a durable brushed aluminium finish that is perfect to fit in any backpack, laptop bag, or even inside your pocket. It offers a storage capacity of 256GB that sufficient for storing all your important documents, photos, videos, etc. while keeping it safe with its built-in security protection feature. The Backup Manager boasts of how intelligently it allows its users to back their important data from their Windows PC or laptop effortlessly. Moreover, this reliable manager is a file management tools that transfers only new files to avoid duplication of documents, something to avoid excessive data storage. The Password Protection Manager is a simple password-run feature that lets you keep your data save, also thanks to the 256-bit AES encryption software. As with any mechanical breakdowns or file recovery, this best external SSD is well-equipped to deliver faster and reliable performance than most other Windows-compatible external SSD devices.

Best compact external SSD

SanDisk Extreme 500 Portable SSD
A compact external SSD must be portable, lightweight, and durable in design. That way, buyers can make the most out of their data by keeping it safe and ready-to-go, regardless of where they are. The SanDisk Extreme 500 Portable SSD is the only compact external SSD worth buying for its design and performance. It is comparatively smaller in size compared to its competitors, plus it offers some of the best features to die for. It offers 480GB data storage capacity with a sequential read up to 430MB per second and write up to 400MB per second. The interface is well-supported and easy to use, thanks to the USB 3.0 interface that quickly transfers your files and ensures that they’re secure wherever you go. The way this best external SSD drive is engineered, it guarantees 4 times faster speed than a portable and compact hard drive, plus with 128-bit AES encryption software, it is powerfully backed-up to keep your data protected. Another major advantage of buying the SanDisk Extreme 500 Portable SSD lies in its SanDisk SecureAccess Software. It creates a privately secured vault inside your drive so you can store all your critical and important files in there. Overall, the durable design and secure interface of this best external SSD has taken over the industry as it is specifically designed for the savvy buyer.

Best external SSD for speedy performance

Shadow Mini External USB 3.0 Portable SSD
Want something 10 times greater than usual? The Shadow Mini External USB 3.0 Portable SSD is an extreme SSD capable of speeds over 400MB per second, thanks to the USB 3.0 port. This speed is engineered to combine some of the best features in an external SSD, making it 10 times faster than USB 2.0 ports. This best external SSD is made up of an ultra-compact aluminum body with no external power adapter or custom driver requirements, making it the perfect external SSD for most people. It has a 3-year limited warranty and is impressively durable to withstand high impact, making it shock-resistant when operating with 1500Gs of shock. Moreover, it is intelligently designed to avoid overheating, a feature that many consumers found benchmarking. The speed, usage, design, and lastingness of this best external SSD is worth the buy. Those who purchase an external SSD are often found dissapointed for fast speeds in transferring data, but with the Shadow Mini External USB 3.0 Portable SSD, that’s clearly out the window. For the average user, this is the fastest external SSD one could get. It is better than traditional hard drives, and more useful especially because of its portable and compact design.

Best ultra-portable external SSD

MyDigitalSSD OTG mSATA SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Portable External SSD
We finally found something that is ultra-portable and speedy, the MyDigitalSSD OTG mSATA SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Portable External SSD is a USB 3.0 Mini SSD with features such as USB Attached SCSI Protocol, Energy-Saving feature, and solid SSD technology for a durable housed case and faster performance. It delivers 5Gbps performance while maintaining a lower CPU power utilization to program speeds up to 460MB per second. Apart from being shock-resistant, the MyDigitalSSD OTG mSATA SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Portable External SSD is carefully designed to withstand daily pressures, inlcuding sudden drops, shocks, shakes, and scratches without any data loss worry. It is perfect for today’s PCs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. This ultra-mobile external SSD features storage capacities of 64, 128, 256, and 516GB which is more than enough for storing important files and media. We selected the 256GB because it has had a striking consumer reputation for its design and performance. One of the most impressive reviews of the MyDigitalSSD OTG mSATA SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Portable External SSD makes it perfect when traveling since it’s compact enough for cloning and way faster for FileVault Encryption so you don’t loose anything. Lastly, on testing this best external SSD on the BlackMagic Speed Test, it showcases 3 times faster read speed than one of the most prominent hard drives on the market.

Best wireless external SSD

Toshiba Canvio AeroMobile Wireless SSD
A wireless external SSD has seem some of the most disappointing drawbacks of its time. One of them lack of intuitive controls and connectivity. Enter the Toshiba Canvio AeroMobile Wireless SSD. It is convenience, performance, and power built in one. With Toshiba’s general awe of proven durability and powerful interface, the Toshiba Canvio AeroMobile Wireless SSD can be used to store, stream, and share important media and files anywhere. It offers up to 8 full hours of video streaming battery life, a rechargeable battery, and simultaneous-multiple user connectivity up to 8 devices. The Internet pass thru mode is essential for accessing the web while you’re still transferring data to the Toshiba Canvio AeroMobile Wireless SSD. It has a strong compatibility with PC, Mac, Android, and iOS mobile devices. The 128GB drive might seem limited, but once experienced, it can store unlimited stream of photos and videos on-the-go. This best external SSD is perfect for travelers and lazy backup users. You can store, wirelessly, all your important data, and forget it’s even there for a really, really long time. You’ll be able to retrieve important data, whenever you want, without worrying about media degradation or data loss. The Toshiba Canvio AeroMobile Wireless SSD is all about security and its strong hardware configurations back that.

Best durable external SSD

U32 Shadow External USB 3.0 Portable SSD
The U32 Shadow External USB 3.0 Portable SSD is backed by a brand that cares about your data. Assuming certain data storage limitations in any laptop, this best external SSD doesn’t ignore the safety of yours. It works great on every device and offers faster data transfer, thank to the USB 3.0 interface which is much faster than USB 2.0. The aluminum body is ideal for dissipating heat while the unique design looks stylish and almost like a designer drive of a higher-price. It has a running read speed of 525MB per second and is powered by the USB bus for ease of use. You don’t require any external power adapter or drivers to connect this best external SSD to your device, making it the most perfect solution to all your portability problems. It has a 3-year warranty and provides high-impact resistance with no moving parts. We also found the U32 Shadow External USB 3.0 Portable SSD ideal for HD video editing and for large data transfers as its durable body dissipates heat effortlessly. If you’re looking for something much heavier in terms of durability and has an outstanding storage capacity, this best external SSD is for you. With a 1TB drive, it is destined to deliver rock-solid performance and reliability like never before.

Wrapping it up

The kind of performance and speed an external SSD will bring you is unexplainable. And when compared with other drives, you will be able to clearly define which is faster and greater than the other. External solid-state drives are more reliable and speedier than the rest. Unlike most data storage brands, those that engineer an external SSD cater to many specific consumer needs such as better protection, faster data transfers, portability, and high-impact resistant housing. More importantly, to find one that performs the best, you need a larger capacity depending upon your reason or purpose of purchase. Getting back to our expertise, the Samsung T3 Portable SSD offers incredible speed and performance for long-term users. The entire SSD is designed to last for a really long time and is well-featured to store all your important data on-the-go. It is a portable SSD with a whopping 500GB storage space and USB 3.1 Type-C interface for faster data transfers and durability. What’s more is our extensive list of relevant and high-performing external solid-state drives that compete well with our best external SSD pick. They’re all reliable and come from respectable brands on the market. For an external SSD to work well with your device/devices, it must meet certain criterias that will only be determined once you are aware of the best ones on the market. With the help of our honest and elaborated review, you will be capable of procuring a satisfying storage device.